Getting Better with Jonathan Van Ness

We’re telling the truth, the HOLE truth, and nothing BUTT the truth this week. It’s all about anal health today on the pod, and we’re sitting down with one of the most esteemed butt doctors in the biz: Dr. Evan Goldstein -  or as we call him “the Robin Hood of anal.” Dr. Goldstein is here to get us together and answer all the burning questions - literally. How do we wipe? What is the scoop on fiber? And what is a fistula? Asking for a friend…

Dr. Goldstein is the founder and CEO of Bespoke Surgical – a first of its kind health practice specializing in gay men's sexual health and wellness. He is one of the few surgeons dedicated to treating and restoring the human butt, and as a gay man, he understands both the physical challenges of anal play and recognizes the psychological and emotional issues that get in the way of engaging successfully and pleasurably. Dr. Goldstein has been featured in Cosmopolitan, Well+Good, Men’s Health, Howard Stern, and more. His new book, “Butt Seriously: The Definitive Guide to Anal Health, Pleasure, and Everything In Between” is a refreshingly inclusive and sex-positive, backdoor bible for anyone looking to uplevel their sex life.

You can follow Dr. Evan Goldstein on Instagram @drevangoldstein. You can also follow Bespoke Surgical on Instagram @bespokesurgical. Bespoke Surgical is on TikTok @bespokesurgical.

Follow us on Instagram @CuriousWithJVN to join the conversation. Jonathan is on Instagram @JVN.

Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com.

Find books from Getting Curious guests at bookshop.org/shop/curiouswithjvn.

Our senior producer is Chris McClure. Our editor & engineer is Nathanael McClure. Production support from Julie Carrillo, Anne Currie, and Chad Hall.

Our theme music is “Freak” by QUIÑ; for more, head to TheQuinCat.com.

Curious about bringing your brand to life on the show? Email [email protected].

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Introducing Alexis Ren & Allie Michelle: 3 Ways to Stop Putting a Guard up in Love & Why You Need to Change Your Mindset On What Success Means in Dating from On Purpose with Jay Shetty.

Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

How can you start letting your guard down in love?

How can you become more open and vulnerable in your relationships?

Today, let's welcome Alexis Ren and Allie Michelle. Alexis is a model, entrepreneur, and social media influencer with over 18 million followers on Instagram. Known for her advocacy of mental health and self-empowerment, Alexis has leveraged her platform to promote wellness and personal growth. She is also the co-founder of "We Are Warriors," a female-driven wellness community focused on fostering self-love, strength, and growth among women worldwide. 

Allie is a bestselling author, spoken word artist, and certified yoga, breathwork, meditation, Reiki, and craniosacral therapist. She is passionate about holistic health and personal development, which she incorporates into her work. The duo are the co-founders of "We Are Warriors," a female-driven wellness community focused on fostering self-love, strength, and growth among women worldwide. 

Alexis and Allie's friendship began when they were preteens and they share how their relationship has been a cornerstone of their personal growth, providing mutual support through life's challenges. A significant turning point in their friendship occurred when Alexis's mother passed away, leading to Allie’s family adopting Alexis. 

A significant theme throughout the discussion is the balance of masculine and feminine energies, which Alexis and Allie explore in depth. They describe how these energies play out in their lives and work, with Alexis often taking on a more masculine, action-oriented role, while Allie embodies a more feminine, intuitive approach. They emphasize the importance of recognizing and honoring both energies within oneself and in others, as this balance has been crucial in their personal and professional lives.

Alexis and Allie also address the societal pressures that women face, particularly around beauty standards and career expectations. Both women emphasize the importance of breaking free from limiting beliefs and societal expectations to find deeper fulfillment and authenticity.

In this interview, you'll learn:

How to support a friend

How to manage criticism

How to build a strong friendship

How to stay authentic

How to handle creative blocks

How to empower others

Embrace the balance of your masculine and feminine energies, break free from societal expectations, and empower each other to thrive on the journey to self-discovery and growth.

With Love and Gratitude,

Jay Shetty

What We Discuss:

• 00:00 Intro
• 03:38 Beginning of a Friendship 
• 08:25 Growing Together Independently
• 10:21 Going Through Big and Small Changes
• 15:19 Creative and Emotional Intelligence
• 18:30 Validating and Complimenting Each Other 
• 21:59 Types of Archetypes
• 27:18 What's Holding Women Back?
• 29:46 Start Embracing Your Feminine Energy
• 33:38 Why Did It Trigger You?
• 41:00 How to Prepare for Life
• 45:23 Living an Internally Peaceful Life
• 52:44 Balance Between Masculine and Feminine Energy
• 01:02:25 Dealing with the Imbalance in Your Energy
• 01:07:00 You Can Do Uncomfortable Things
• 01:10:16 The Best Journaling Practice
• 01:14:39 Speak to Your Subconscious
• 01:16:55 Try Leaning Into the Moment
• 01:23:27 Relationship Checklist 
• 01:28:38 Alexis and Allie on Final Five 
• 01:37:46 Giving Each Other the Grace of Change

Episode Resources:

• Alexis Ren | YouTube
• Alexis Ren | Instagram
• Alexis Ren | Facebook
• Alexis Ren | TikTok
• Allie Michelle | YouTube
• Allie Michelle | Instagram
• Allie Michelle | TikTok
• Allie Michelle | Books
• We Are Warriors

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

Princess Diana. Lady Gaga. Tilda Swinton. No, this is not a fever dream, it’s just a sampling of the illustrious career of the awe-inspiring hairstylist, Sam McKnight -  this week’s Pretty Curious guest! Buckle your seat beats, sweeties, JVN sat down with the iconic and truly one-of-one creative to pick his brain about navigating such an unbelievable and influential career. This episode is giving you 90s fashion lore, hot takes on the media's portrayal of the fashion industry, and some major gardening tips & tricks.

Sam McKnight, MBE is renowned for creating the hair looks that every woman wants. From his signature, ‘Cool Girl’ effortlessly undone textured hair (the poster child of who is his long-term collaborator and friend, Kate Moss) to his fashionably timeless, elevated looks that reflect his rebellious spirit, to his handmade couture wigs, to red carpet sophistication. Sam’s unparalleled portfolio of work reads like a who’s-who of high-fashion and A-list celebrity.

His ethos has attracted an unparalleled list of celebrity clients including Jodie Comer, Cate Blanchett, The Hadid Sisters, Kate Moss, Kendall Jenner, Emilia Clarke, Cara Delevingne, Priyanka Chopra-Jonas, Lady Gaga, Naomi Campbell, Tilda Swinton and, of course, Sam was Princess Diana’s private hair stylist for seven years. Sam has presided over iconic fashion moments of the past four decades and continues to be responsible for culture-defining hair looks that make him one of the most in-demand artists.

Sam McKnight is on Instagram @sammcknight1 & @hairbysammcknight

Follow us on Instagram @CuriousWithJVN to learn more about the products from this episode, or head to JonathanVanNess.com for the transcript. Jonathan is on Instagram @JVN.

Find books from Getting Curious and Pretty Curious guests at bookshop.org/shop/curiouswithjvn.

Our Senior Producer is Chris McClure. Our editor & engineer is Nathanael McClure. Our theme music is also composed by Nathanael McClure. Production support from Anne Currie, and Chad Hall.

Curious about bringing your brand to life on the show? Email [email protected].

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today on Getting Curious, we’ve got THE Olympic runner to watch -  Nikki Hiltz! This episode is coming to you on the eve of their race at the Women’s 1500m semifinals, but JVN caught up with Nikki in the salon chair for a podium worthy haircut  just before Nikki left for gay Paris! We're talking track & field 101, how Nikki shows up as their authentic self in every race, and what exactly IS a steeplechase?

Nikki Hiltz is a nonbinary professional track and field athlete and is the first openly nonbinary runner to win a USA Track and Field championship title. The middle-distance specialist is an Olympian, 6 time National Champion, World Indoor Silver Medalist, Pan American Games gold medalist and American Record Holder in the mile. Nikki is also a vocal advocate for equal rights, particularly passionate about making the sport of running more inclusive and fundraising for services that support the young LGBTQIA+ community. In 2020, they founded the Pride 5K, a race which supports LGBTQIA+ nonprofits. Hiltz’s annual event has raised over $162,000 and they are currently planning the fifth iteration of the event in 2024.

You can follow Nikki on Instagram @nikkihiltz or on TikTok @Nikki_Hiltz.

Follow us on Instagram @CuriousWithJVN to join the conversation. Jonathan is on Instagram @JVN.

Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com.

Find books from Getting Curious guests at bookshop.org/shop/curiouswithjvn.

Our senior producer is Chris McClure. Our editor & engineer is Nathanael McClure. Production support from Anne Currie, and Chad Hall.

Our theme music is “Freak” by QUIÑ; for more, head to TheQuinCat.com.

Curious about bringing your brand to life on the show? Email [email protected].

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Introducing Robert Greene: How to Deal with Negative People When They Are in Your Family, Friend Circle or Work from On Purpose with Jay Shetty.

Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

How do you deal with negative people close to you?

How do you stay positive around negative people?

Today, Jay welcomes Robert Greene, known for his bestsellers like "The 48 Laws of Power" and "The Daily Laws." Robert's works draw on historical figures and events to provide insights into the dynamics of power and social influence. His books are often used as guides for personal development, leadership, and understanding the complexities of human interactions. 

Robert shares tips on dealing with negative people, emphasizing the importance of emotional distance and understanding that everyone has their flaws and shares his thoughts on the idea that our sense of self is just a mental construct, and real enlightenment comes from letting go of our egos. He also stresses the importance of questioning your beliefs to truly understand who you are and what you’re meant to do in life. 

Followed by Jay and Robert's discussion on why it's more important to judge people by their character rather than their intelligence or charm, how a strong character is shown by handling criticism well, working well with others, and managing stress. They also talk about how modern life can make us less empathetic and the need to genuinely connect with others. 

In this interview, you'll learn:

How to deal with negative people

How to develop empathy in modern life

How to question your own beliefs

How to stay true to yourself

How to handle criticism constructively

How to manage stress effectively

By understanding the nature of the self, maintaining emotional distance from negativity, and focusing on genuine connections, we can foster a stronger sense of empathy and authenticity in our lives.

With Love and Gratitude,

Jay Shetty

What We Discuss:

• 00:00 Intro
• 05:31 How to Deal with Negative People?
• 09:04 Look Behind the Mask
• 13:26 Getting Attracted to the Wrong People
• 15:02 Filling Up the Emptiness
• 17:23 Surprising Characteristics in Humans
• 19:10 Our Capacity for Empathy
• 21:31 What’s Your Most Repeated Thought?
• 22:34 How Quiet the Mind
• 24:54 Becoming More Aware
• 30:20 How We Process What We’re Experiencing
• 33:42 Who Really Are You?
• 37:44 How People Think About You
• 41:00 People’s Perception of You
• 43:46 The Before and After
• 46:57 Timeless Knowledge in Books
• 49:58 What Makes You Excited?
• 53:16 The Second Self
• 55:57 The Core of Your Reality
• 59:21 Limited Language
• 01:01:41 The Limited Circle of Harmony
• 01:04:49 Different Thoughts About the World
• 01:11:04 Slowing Down
• 01:13:21 Robert on Final Five  

Episode Resources:

• Robert Greene | Website
• Robert Greene | Instagram
• Robert Greene | TikTok
• Robert Greene | YouTube
• Robert Greene | Books

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

We've got makeup artist extraordinaire Keita Moore on the pod today, sharing everything you need to know about finding THE foundation for you! Whether you’re a makeup novice or a glam aficionado, Keita's quick tips & sage advice are not to be missed! We're diving into skin prep for the best makeup coverage, color matching, and how to sanitize that ancient palette in your rotation.

Keita Moore is one of the most sought-after makeup artists in the industry with dual bases in both New York City and Los Angeles. Keita has established himself as a true master of his craft, with a passion for transforming faces into stunning works of art. Whether he's working his magic on the red carpet, in music videos, at high-profile press events, or for striking editorial shoots, Keita's skillful artistry shines through, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he works with. Among his extensive list of celebrity clients are some of the most iconic figures in the entertainment industry, including Janelle Monae, Kelly Rowland, Iman, Tessa Thompson, and Yara Shahidi, just to name a few. Keita's work can also be seen on the covers and pages of esteemed publications such as Vogue, Elle, Interview, Harper’s Bazaar, Vanity Fair, InStyle, and W Magazine, further solidifying his status as an influential force in the beauty industry.

Keita Moore is on Instagram @kilprity and on TikTok @kilprity

Follow us on Instagram @CuriousWithJVN to learn more about the products from this episode, or head to JonathanVanNess.com for the transcript. Jonathan is on Instagram @JVN.

Find books from Getting Curious and Pretty Curious guests at bookshop.org/shop/curiouswithjvn.

Our Senior Producer is Chris McClure. Our editor & engineer is Nathanael McClure. Our theme music is also composed by Nathanael McClure. Production support from Anne Currie, and Chad Hall.

Curious about bringing your brand to life on the show? Email [email protected].

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Introducing Unearth Yosemite's Secrets with Lillian Cunningham from Via Podcast.

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On this episode of the Via Podcast, hosts Michelle Donati and Mitti Hicks learn behind-the-scenes stories and insider scoop on Yosemite National Park, from the history of the creation of the park to where to uncover the entirety of the park's archives.

Guest Lillian Miller, host of the Washington Post podcast Field Trip, takes you behind the curtain and explores how the park was created and what continues to sustain it hundreds of years later.

Via Podcast is a production of AAA Mountain West Group.

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

If you’ve ever seen a “What I Eat In A Day” video, glanced at a tabloid in the checkout lane, or even turned on the TV, you’re likely familiar with the problematic and often toxic messaging about food and our relationship with it. JVN and Emmeline Clein delve into the complexities of eating disorders, shedding light on their often misunderstood and stigmatized nature and how they’re deeply embedded in our culture. Emmeline, both in this episode and in her book Dead Weight, advocates for a more holistic and compassionate approach to the subject.

Note: This episode covers topics related to eating disorders, including disordered eating behaviors, body image, and related struggles. These subjects are sensitive, so please take care when listening.

Emmeline Clein’s writing has appeared in The New York Times Magazine, The Yale Review, The Nation, Smithsonian, Berlin Quarterly, VICE, BuzzFeed, Catapult and Antigravity, among other publications. Her chapbook Toxic was published by Choo Choo Press in 2022. She received her MFA from Columbia University’s School of the Arts and she lives in New York. Her first book, Dead Weight, is out now.

You can follow Emmeline on Instagram @emmelc or on X @emmelclein.

Follow us on Instagram @CuriousWithJVN to join the conversation. Jonathan is on Instagram @JVN.

Transcripts for each episode are available at JonathanVanNess.com.

Find books from Getting Curious guests at bookshop.org/shop/curiouswithjvn.

Our senior producer is Chris McClure. Our editor & engineer is Nathanael McClure. Production support from Anne Currie, and Chad Hall.

Our theme music is “Freak” by QUIÑ; for more, head to TheQuinCat.com.

Curious about bringing your brand to life on the show? Email [email protected].

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Introducing Fat Joe: How To Be Successful After Hitting Rock Bottom & Stop Letting Failures Define You from On Purpose with Jay Shetty.

Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

What was your biggest challenge after hitting rock bottom?

How did you manage to overcome your failures?

Today, let's welcome the one and only Fat Joe, a renowned American rapper and music industry executive. He began his music career in the early 1990s and quickly gained recognition with his debut album "Represent" in 1993, featuring the hit single "Flow Joe." Fat Joe has played a crucial role in promoting other artists, notably Big Pun, who achieved significant success before his untimely death. His journey from the streets of the Bronx to international stardom is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and enduring impact on the world of hip hop.

Fat Joe provides an honest look at the gritty realities of his early life, including hustling for money and living through dangerous encounters. He shares how the aggressive nature of hip hop initially required him to hide his true, more personable self behind a tough exterior. However, he credits the genre for saving his life and offering a legitimate path out of the streets.

The conversation takes a turn as Fat Joe talks about the devastating losses he endured, including the deaths of his sister, Big Pun, and his grandfather, all within a short span. These tragedies plunged him into a deep depression, from which he emerged with the help of therapy, highlighting the importance of mental health and seeking help. Despite facing financial mismanagement and betrayals, Fat Joe maintains his integrity and commitment to his values. 

In this interview, you'll learn:

How to balance career and family

How turn negative experiences into positives

How to build a resilient mindset

How to give back to your community

How to stay true to yourself

Fat Joe's story is a source of inspiration, demonstrating that with determination and support, it is possible to overcome adversity and achieve lasting success and happiness.

With Love and Gratitude,

Jay Shetty

Special thanks to Soho Home at Soho Works 55 Water where the taping took place.

What We Discuss:

• 00:00 Intro
• 02:04 Earliest Childhood Memory
• 03:52 Bullying
• 07:53 Developing resilience 
• 08:37 Life and Death Choices
• 09:51 Thug Life
• 12:42 Ambition to Succeed
• 16:43 Figure It Out
• 22:03 Family Tree
• 27:43 Losing Family Over Addiction
• 31:57 Loss and Grief
• 39:21 Sister Love
• 41:13 Big Pun
• 46:56 Financial Literacy
• 50:19 Take Care of Your Parents
• 52:13 Money and Trust
• 56:25 Stick Around
• 57:44 Kids with Special Needs
• 01:02:30 Channeling Energy Through Music
• 01:04:30 Interview Gone VIral
• 01:08:30 Doing Good in Silence
• 01:11:05 The HipHop Culture
• 01:13:30 Spiritual and Healing Journey
• 01:16:34 Hair Care
• 01:19:47 Weight Loss
• 01:25:02 Joe on Final Five 

Episode Resources:

• Fat Joe | Instagram
• Fat Joe | TikTok

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

Introducing Fashion 'It Man' Derek Blasberg from Our Way with Paul Anka and Skip Bronson.

Follow the show: Our Way with Paul Anka and Skip Bronson

Paul and Skip exchange style tips and life advice from the world-class fashion figure—a man who's literally written the book (a New York Times best-selling one!) on how to look great at all times. From Vogue and Vanity Fair to CNN and YouTube, Derek shares his amazing story that saw him go from small-town boy to BFFs with the biggest figures in entertainment and one of the most powerful influencers in the industry. While you can't teach taste, this episode comes pretty close. 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].